Could the Warriors Boost Roster Through Free Agency?

Could the Warriors consider adding Metta World Peace? Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

The frenzy of roster changes is still in affect despite the passing of the trade deadline. Teams around the NBA are shuffling through their rosters by diving into free agency. There has been a plethora of quality players entering free agency due to waivers and buyouts.

Should the Golden State Warriors pursue any of these players to bolster their bench?

The lack of punch off the bench from the Warriors has been a topic of discussion throughout this season. Their bench play has steadily improved recently due to the recent acquisition of Steve Blake. However, the dubs may want to look into free agency to establish a reliable second unit for a deep playoff run.

The most coveted free agent on the market today is Danny Granger. It is expected that he and the Philadelphia 76ers reach a buyout on his contract very soon ( via @daldridgetnt ). Assuming that all goes as plan, Granger would be a great asset for any team to have off the bench. For his career, he is averaging 17.6 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. Although he is naturally a wing player, Granger’s game can translate into the post for the Warriors. He would be an ideal back up for David Lee.

It may be improbable that the Warriors actually land Granger in a deal, but there are many other quality pieces out there that they could use.

One of the biggest concerns the front office must address is the depth of their big men. Andrew Bogut has been in and out of the starting lineup with injuries to his shoulder, and Jermaine O’Neal’s age may become a factor late in the season.

Apr 6, 2013; San Antonio, TX, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Ivan Johnson (44) steals the ball from San Antonio Spurs guard Nando De Colo (behind) during the first half at the AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

Ivan Johnson, who is currently playing in China, is a big man who can score and rebound at his position. Standing at 6’8, he averages 14.8 points and 9 rebounds per 36 minutes. Johnson is a rare type of big man for his agility and ball handling ability. He has great hands and a soft touch on his jumper which would make him an ideal player in pick-and-pop situations. Aside from his shooting game, Johnson is most effective in the post. His strength and quickness makes him a threat on both sides of the court.

There are also seasoned veterans on the market who can still produce. Antawn Jamison and Metta World Peace were recently bought out by their teams.

Hilton Armstrong, who was recently signed to a 10-day contract with Golden State, can also be an option for them to keep for the rest of the season. He is available to be signed to a second 10-day contract after the first one is up.

Golden State owner Joe Lacob has claimed that Bob Myers can propose any roster changes, even if it means going into the luxury tax (source). This might be the green light for Myers to make a late season acquisition.